No more grey days

Service date: 12/20/06

I have no recollection of my first gray hair (or of the introduction of the hundreds that followed). I can’t even remember who first told me I was “going grey” – but thank you to the many so bold (and occasionally, tactful) who have pointed it out. It was these courteous folks who delivered me to the crossroad: color it or keep it?Publish

Before shot - may or may not be author.

A friend of mine pushed me over the edge with this comment: "Dude, you drive a minivan, you're planning a vacation to Orlando, and you have a chiropractor on speed dial...what have you got left?"

Before I go any further, I should disclose the fact that I had previously colored my hair. This was long before any grey hair (or better judgment) and was a do-it-yourself-from-a-box-you- bought-at-the-grocery-store job. Let me be clear that this is not an approach I’m recommending (especially for people with jobs, responsibilities, etc). Trust me, you will look weird and people will point. Despite whatever it may say on the box, you really can’t be sure what color you will end up with. Plus, it’s messy and it burns your scalp.

Armed with that wisdom, I decided to take my greys to a professional - specifically, Jeanine Brast at The Salon at Parisian. First, a quick word about the salon…yes, there is a salon at Parisian (at least the one in Brookwood). And it’s an upscale, full-service establishment (to see some photos and a service menu click here).

Jeanine Brast, stylist, The Salon at Parisian
Okay, that being said, back to the appointment…Jeanine greeted me within just a few minutes of arriving and took me back to a very nice dressing room where I could put on an apron (yes, I put it on backwards…apparently, only hospital gowns are meant to open in the back…now we know). Once properly attired, Jeanine and I discussed my color expectations. Of course, I really didn’t know what I wanted…no more grey would be nice…something subtle so that most would still believe it to be my natural color…then again, something rich and bold would be fun. Basically, just read my mind and make it perfect. What’s with all the questions?

Jeanine decided on a natural brown from Wella’s Koleston Perfect® line. Sounds impressive, but it just looks like brown paste to me. The whole process of carefully brushing the color into my hair (literally with a small paintbrush-looking thing) took about 20 minutes. And unlike my previous do-it-yourself experience, no stinging scalp or eye pain (just a slight tingle). Once the color was finished, I spent about 15 minutes with my head under a steamer (to speed up the color-bonding process). Sure, it’s a little weird with a large punch-bowl on your head, but it takes a lot longer for the color to set without it (and how many times can you read People magazine in one day?). After my head was adequately “cooked”, it was off to the shampoo bowl for some hair therapy and an unanticipated (but unfortunately desperately needed) brow wax. No ever thinks they have a uni-brow, yet they still exist – thank you, Jeanine, for caring.

Dramatic action shot
After the color process, we discussed my hair style (which now had more to consider than my typical preference). For example, my penchant for short-clipped sides would mean new greys in no time. Accordingly, she recommended keeping a little more length and we abandoned using the clippers altogether. And, oh man, Jeanine is a careful cutter. I can honestly say that I have never had that much attention paid to my hair before. From what little I know, I understand that a good stylist is shaping your hair over a period of cuts. That means you really shouldn’t be expecting a show-stopper until a few visits down the road (note to those “hair hoppers” who bounce from stylist to stylist claiming no one can cut them properly). Jeanine really gave the impression of long-term strategy for my hair and I really appreciated her expertise. And, for a nice bonus, it turns out that I really did like the first cut. And this was a cut right before the holidays, people – so we’re talking about big pressure.

A completely different guy - younger, more handsome, right?
Wrong! It's me...after Jeanine annihilated my greys!
Overall, the visit took about two hours. For those really stingy with their time, it could have gone quicker, but I tend to ask a lot of questions (basically, I don’t have much else going on). And I am definitely happy that I colored. Jeanine did an expert job of finding a color that blended naturally, but had enough rich tone to make me feel re-energized.

Jeanine Brast is a fully-licensed, junior stylist at the Salon at Parisian (where she apprenticed for 2½ years). She is a very talented (and patient) professional who currently cites a preference for coloring. For access to some great promotions at the Salon at Parisian (some of which feature Jeanine’s services), visit salonfly.com.

- Jason O

Microderm

So, I finally decided to find out what all this "microderm" buzz is about. I've been hearing "microderm this" and "microderm that" for years now - it was time this chickie got hip to the 'derm , yo.

I made an appointment with Marsia Applegate at Gates of Pearl Day Spa & Salon in Inverness. I have to admit, my palms were a little moist as I drove there... I really didn't know anything about microdermabrasion. And even though the spa was gorgeous (very warm and welcoming), I was still a bit wary. Marsia greeted me, had me fill out a health / skin care history form, and took me back to where "it" would happen. Gulp.

Ok. Basically, I was worried about pain. Let's get to it, Marsia. Is this going to hurt or what? Marsia told me that there are two types of microderm; one that distributes crystals across your skin which are removed by a little vacuum. This type feels like sand paper and you will most likely have redness afterward (aka "downtime"). The second (the kind Gates of Pearl has) uses a "diamond-encrusted wand to vacuum the skin, so you get a more even abrasion without the gritty residue of the sodium bicarbonate crystals". (Sounds so fancy, huh?) Marsia assured me this kind does not hurt and there is no downtime. That's all I needed to hear. Let's get to it.

Marsia invited me to lay down on a heated massage-like table, she put blankets over me and I relaxed into the warmth immediately. Lights were dimmed...ahhhhh. She then cleansed my face and performed a skin analysis with a black light. You can see where your skin is dry or sun damaged by the different colors that show up. FYI, I had some dryness around the eyes and minor sun damage. (I blame mom for not putting sunblock on me as a child. I guess I should save that rant for my OTHER diary, huh?) She then prepped and toned my face and neck. The microdermabrasion was next - it felt like a tiny vacuum extracting impurities, dead cells, eradicating fine lines - oh what a feeling! (I could feel myself looking like Joan Rivers already!) No pain whatsoever.

I then received a mask chosen for my skin type (based on the black light analysis), an eye treatment, hand massage, moisturizer, sunscreen and Marsia's signature lip moisture therapy. The whole facial took about an hour. I would recommend bringing a hair brush, because I didn't and your hair gets all discumbobulated - not pretty. Gates of Pearl does offer complimentary make up touch-up, which was very nice. Hayley Daniel is their make up master. I had never used mineral make up before, and it was wonderful. They carry the Jane Iredale line. I was also introduced to the "kiss me" line of mascara (silly name, I know). I ended up going back and buying a tube later because it is awesome. I have had problems finding a mascara that will stay on my lashes and this stuff does not budge, even if you take your finger and rub, even if you cry (but don't rub and cry, that will take it off, especially if you're crying because you're so happy you finally found a mascara that works!) And, the second best part is, it's EASY to get off when you want it off. Yes, I am sure it causes cancer or something, because everything that's good does, eh? For once in my life, I don't care! I love this product!!! (but if you hear something let me know, ok?)

Anyway, both Hayley and Marsia were excellent on educating me about what they were doing and what products would be good with my skin. My face glowed and was extrememly soft after my microderm. I did notice some small lines were harder to see, but they are back now. It is recommended that people with normal skin get microderm about once a month, people with specific skin conditions should go twice/month.

I am getting older every day and I laugh and smile and cry and I do use my face for all sorts of expressions. It's good to know there are simple things I can do to help keep looking as spry and sexy as the day I graduated high school. sigh.

- Amy O

Do men get massages?

Do men get massages? Seriously, is this something I’m supposed to keep to myself? I don’t recall ever hearing another guy talk about his massage therapist…and my dad certainly never sat me down to give the “massage talk” (although he did give the “rub some dirt on it / walk it off” speech quite often).

My wife set-up my first massage appointment (probably four years ago), and I was not excited to go. Aches and pains were just a part of life, right? Maybe you need a few aspirin or an ice pack, but a trip to the spa? It just didn’t seem right.

I was a poor fool.

Deep tissue massage. Oh yeah, it will change your life. I can’t recall any of the details of that first appointment. I’m sure it started with me saying something about “low back pain” or a “crick in my neck”, but the rest is at best foggy. How did I even get home after the appointment? No clue. I was in a daze – I had never felt so…good!! I guess my body was in some sort of euphoric shock.

I couldn’t wait to feel like crap again so I could go back. I thought about playing basketball again – lot’s of injuries in that sport. Unfortunately, it was a while before I was in enough pain to warrant another appointment – damn my youthful resilience!

My original massage therapist was no longer practicing. No big deal, I thought. Deep tissue massage is deep tissue massage, right?

Once again, I was the poor fool.

So angry...this guy really needs a massage!

That massage was crap. It was all ham-handed and random. And my next massage (several months later at a different place) was even worse! I thought it was all over. That first massage was just some sort of magical discovery – never to be found again. Maybe my dad was right...maybe I was supposed to just “walk it off”.

Still…I felt hope. And it was with that meager scrap of hope that I gave it one more try. I made an appointment with Amanda at the Gates of Pearl Salon and Day Spa in Inverness. You didn’t think I’d make you read all of this without a happy ending did you? That’s right, she was awesome!

So, okay, let’s take a minute to talk about the Gates of Pearl and that great restorer of faith – Amanda…

I came to my appointment dejected, prepared to be disappointed. Mother Nature captured the mood perfectly - it was gloomy and pouring rain, which encouraged traffic jams and made me 15 minutes late for my appointment. And then everything changed…I walked into the Gates of Pearl and immediately felt like this time might be different. It was beautiful – beginning with a huge welcoming area, centered by large and gently bubbling fountain. The atmosphere was immediately warm and calming – and the staff, starting with front desk, was exceedingly nice. I was 15 minutes late, remember, but it felt as if they were happy to see me.

Amanda (my massage therapist) came out to greet me immediately. She took me back to the massage room – which was definitely designed for relaxation (unlike some massage rooms I’ve been to that feel more like a doctor’s office). She asked me about my previous experiences with massage and my current complaints. By-the-way, these questions are not “small talk” - a good massage therapist has an army of techniques at her disposal, and your responses to these questions help her tailor an approach to your needs. If your massage therapist appears to be listening - you know, making eye contact, nodding her head, asking follow-up questions (as opposed to lighting candles, folding towels, or looking for a cd) - that’s a sign you’re in for some good treatment. Yes, Amanda was a good listener.

For the first few minutes of the massage (I was scheduled for one hour), I think she was exploring for areas in need of particular attention – probably finalizing the attack plan. And then just about when I was going to ask what she planned to do, it started. From then forward, it’s difficult for me to remember specifics. I’m pretty sure I passed out a few times. You know, you’re lying there thinking “wow, that feels phenomenal. I can total feel my shoulder loosening up” and then BAM! - you’re asleep. Some time later you sort of crawl back into consciousness to having your palm massaged and you think “My God! I never thought my hands needed to be massaged, but…” and then you’re back asleep. This cycle continues for what feels like five, maybe ten minutes at the most, and then you find out a whole hour has passed.

A far more relaxed, and yes, contemplative man...after the massage.

Amanda described my massage (after the fact) as a collage of Swedish, deep tissue, reflexology and acupressure. I would describe it as focused, attentive, and just-plain-incredibly-wonderful feeling. She was also very articulate and informative regarding why she chose that particular approach. At least she gave the impression she was articulate and informative…honestly, I was probably enjoying the post-massage “foggy-headed” euphoria a bit too much. And I was mostly concerned with how soon I could convince my wife I needed to schedule another massage.

Just a few facts about Amanda…she graduated from the Red Mountain Institute (Homewood, Al) about 4 years ago. She is a fully licensed massage therapist with additional certifications in Integrative Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy and Reflexology. She works with clients from kids (for example, a child with a sports-related injury) to grandparents. And she is undoubtedly a professional who cares about helping people.

- Jason O

a new you...Sanctuary

I know many people are intimidated, stressed out or frightened to try a new salon or spa... especially when it comes to changing a style you've had for two years too many ( i hear big hair is coming back. We must Revolt! Dear God... don't let your children see you that way! ) I love to change it up... trying new places & services. This will be my space to share good salon & spa experiences with those who care to learn more about beauty & pampering in Birmingham... so hopefully they'll have good experiences too.

This time, I chose Sanctuary. I have to admit, I've always been curious about the place, but was a bit apprehensive... I thought it would be out of my price range. I've seen all the ads & their impressive website (click here if you haven't yet seen it). My curiosity finally bubbled over, like a poured-too-fast beer. Last week, I flung those big wooden doors open and came at those Sanctuary folk with the massive challenge - make me hot!

What a pleasant pleasant experience! The first thing I noticed was how beautiful the salon is... not beautiful in a prissy-faced model way, but more like a beautiful I-hope-to-create-in-my- home one day. Very cozy and warm... with nice things that I wouldn't have to move to the top shelf from grabby toddler hands and swooshy dog tails. It will happen one day, dear diary, it will.

The second thing I noticed were the smiles. Holly and Celia at the front desk were just the beginning... those dames were quite charming and very approachable. My stylist du'jour, Heather Freeman, also came to greet me with a friendly smile and I noticed all the other stylists and staff constantly in a good mood... smiling at clients that weren't theirs... people they had no possible way of getting a good tip out of! Unheard of, but Brilliant! The place has a warm feel.

Heather did a great job on my hair ( see pic and I do think you'll agree...). She made sure we were on the same page by showing me some pictures of what she thought I meant by "Oh, I don't really know what I want." ( I always say that because I'm indecisive... some stylists handle it well, others just kind of melt away into a puddle of hair products on the floor. Heather handled my cluelessness wonderfully.) We decided to do a cute bob with some highlights and lowlights. "Pump up the blonde," she said. "Fabulous!" said I. Jason ( my hunky hubby) couldn't stop singing the praises of my beauty all night long. I believe him (although he also used to say I was beautiful when I was 9-months preggo, and I have seen the pictures... ).

A few things I'd like to mention about my Sanctuary experience... Heather is quite a steal for the talent. She's still an apprentice, which makes her (female) haircuts only about 35 dollars!! Holy crap. I need to make my next appointment before she books up. ( I was very wrong about Sanctuary being too pricey... they've got several levels of quite fantastic stylists that fit all budgets ). Also, I was impressed to learn that Sanctuary offers a complimentary cellophane wrap with all color services ( a "cellophane" locks in the color and gives super shine! I'd never had one before.) Just make sure to request it. Blankets. Oh, what a nice touch! There were soft chenille blankets on the backs of near every chair. I got comfie under a blanket whilst being shampoo'ed ( by "amazing" April) and owner Todd Cargo, while on the shortest of breaks between clients, felt a "chill in the air" and placed said blankets on all clients getting their hairs cut. Fun.

The last thing I will mention (promise) was that I noticed, when I signed in, I was the only one having to give my address as a new client. What that means to me is that people who try Sanctuary love & stay with Sanctuary. Whether it's for the hot talent they've found, the "we're family, you're family" feel, or just the great products they use/offer... what I got was quality, style and maybe a little extra love from the husband. wink wink... nudge.

- Amy O